You can usually tell by the abandoned toys strewn around Loch Haven Dog Park in Hoover, Alabama how many people have passed through on any given day. Half-destroyed tennis balls accompany chewed up Frisbees with dirty rope bones mixed in among the leaves. Baseballs once white now are the same color as the gray sand they rest in.

Annie might play fetch with the ball for a couple of times before veering off to see what better toys are available (resting idle in the grass or can be stolen from another dog – preferably the latter).

Everyone’s attention was captured when Luna, an Old English Sheepdog/Poodle mix, entered the gate. At only four months old, she embodied 35 pounds of playful love in a shed-free white and chocolate coat. Annie didn’t see Luna – Annie saw the toy Luna carried in her mouth – a dirty orange plastic tube with one end chewed off. The new object of Annie’s desire.

We all have passions that we guardedly spend time enjoying. For me, it used to be mosaics but that season of my life has passed. Now, the most treasured part of my day is the time I spend with God. I try to do it first thing (well, actually after I get back in from taking Annie out). I sit in my comfy chair with my coffee while reading my bible, talking to God, and declaring blessings over others and myself. It sets the tone for the rest of my day.

Satan loves it when I’m unable to have my quiet time. My thoughts are different, my day doesn’t go as smoothly, and I’m not as happy because I’m not enveloped in God’s peace.​

Romans 12:2 (NLT)

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you which is good and pleasing and perfect.